Physical habitat structure definition
Physical habitat structure means the diverse combination and complexity of instream forms created within substrate and woody debris on and within the bed and banks of the channel by natural stream processes and flow characteristics. Physical habitat structure, in part, determines aquatic habitat quality at the stream reach and stream network scales by providing for all life cycle functions, which include the full set of forms necessary for the provision of and access to cover, overwintering, and temperature refuge and the substrates necessary for feeding and reproduction of aquatic biota and wildlife.